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Multiple Choice
The outer dense connective tissue of a bone, the periosteum, serves which of the following primary functions?
A
Forms the inner lining of the medullary cavity
B
Is responsible for the mineralization of bone matrix
C
Provides a surface for the attachment of muscles and tendons
D
Stores red bone marrow for blood cell production
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by identifying the periosteum as the outer dense connective tissue layer of a bone. It is a fibrous membrane that covers the external surface of bones, except at the joints where articular cartilage is present.
Step 2: Understand the primary functions of the periosteum. It serves as a protective layer and provides a surface for the attachment of muscles and tendons, which is crucial for movement and stability.
Step 3: Clarify that the periosteum does not form the inner lining of the medullary cavity. The inner lining is formed by the endosteum, which is a separate structure.
Step 4: Note that the periosteum is not directly responsible for the mineralization of the bone matrix. Mineralization is primarily carried out by osteoblasts within the bone tissue itself.
Step 5: Highlight that the periosteum does not store red bone marrow for blood cell production. Red bone marrow is located within the medullary cavity and spongy bone, not the periosteum.